A horrible tragedy takes one of our own

Monday

People such as Chief Warrant Officer 3 Gary Stouffer deserve a parade, but they should never die through their participation.

People such as Chief Warrant Officer 3 Gary Stouffer deserve a parade, but they should never die through their participation.

From all accounts, Stouffer was a dedicated husband, father and all-around family man. A Marine who aspired to making CWO5 before retirement, Stouffer was attached to 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division at Camp Lejeune.

He was remembered as a good Marine who loved the Corps. His service in Afghanistan left him with both physical and emotional scars that never had a chance to heal.

There is no doubt that a dedicated leatherneck and combat veteran such as Stouffer would never imagine heíd die under such ironic circumstances: Standing on a float honoring veterans in a parade in Midland, Texas.

But thatís what happened when a train slammed into the float carrying him and other veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Along with Stouffer, three others died and 16 people were injured.

Stouffer and his wife, Catherine, were guests at Midlandís Veteranís Day celebration, the disastrous route of which brought the float, loaded with military veterans and their wives, across the tracks and directly into the path of an oncoming train. Witnesses said that the float was unable to clear the track ahead of the oncoming train because another vehicle was stopped in front of it.

Stouffer, 37, and three soldiers were killed in the terrible accident, which remains under investigation. Three of the four who died lived in North Carolina at the time of the fatal collision.

In addition to his wife, Stouffer leaves behind a daughter who is a student at Swansboro High School, as well as a 12-year-old son. The family, which calls the Hubert community home, has a long road ahead of them.

It is hoped that all of Stoufferís loved ones understand that the residents of Onslow County are here for them, whatever their needs. This really is a caring community.

Gary Stouffer, father, husband and good citizen in this community, may have lost his life in a freak accident with unimaginable consequences, but his contribution as a resident, family man and warrior will not be soon forgotten.

It is hoped that the Stouffer family can get through this difficult time comforted by the knowledge that their loved one was a good and decent man and someone who served his country and his fellow citizens with dedication to duty and honor.

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